Batala Australia is a Byron Bay-based Afro-Brazilian percussion group that plays traditional Samba-reggae rhythms. In 2016 Flávia Lopes, inspired by her experience of being a part of Batala Brasilia back in Brazil, decided to bring the beats to Australia. Together with a diverse group of local women, and with Priscila Rios as the music leader, the community project was founded.  

‘Our mission is to enrich and inspire our communities by providing Afro-Brazilian musical and cultural experiences, through workshops and live performances. As an artistic collective, our musical expression and cultural heritage are open to all individuals regardless of race, gender identity, sexual orientation, age or background, adding to our mission the promotion of social inclusion. We believe that music is a universal language that can inspire and have a positive influence on the broader community.’